High School Sports Blog

Ennis ISD official release on football coach Sam Harrell retiring from coaching

I had a story in this morning’s paper and on-line last night about legendary Ennis football coach Sam Harrell retiring from football coaching at Ennis. This morning, the Ennis ISD sent out an official release about Harrell retiring. Here’s that release:

December 3, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

Sam Harrell Announces Decision to Retire from Coaching

After 16 successful seasons as head coach of the Ennis Lions football program, Sam Harrell has announced his decision to retire from coaching.

Coach Harrell sat out the 2010 season as head coach of the Lions while addressing health issues related to his treatment for multiple sclerosis. Last May, he assumed duties as director of the district’s Career & Technology Education (CTE) program, while Steve Marrow served as interim head coach for the 2010 season.

He will remain as director of the CTE program.

A native of Brownwood, Coach Harrell came to Ennis in 1994 from a successful stint as head coach with Reagan County ISD in West Texas. He has led the Ennis Lions program to an overall record of 146-46-0 and three state championships in 2000, 2001 and 2004.

“For over 30 years, coaching has been my passion and my life,” Coach Harrell said. “And, quite honestly, I thought I would coach until I was 65 or 70. However, my health has changed that scenario.

“I’m stepping away from this great profession with no regrets, because I leave with so many wonderful memories of teams and players and leave with so many great relationships with coaches and athletes,” he continued.

“I would like to thank Ennis ISD and the community of Ennis for supporting me for 16 years and for entrusting me and my coaches with your children,” Coach Harrell added. “It has been a great run, and I wish you more of the same.”

Bill Cox, Ennis ISD athletic director, said: “It is with much regret that we accept our coach’s decision. His contributions to our football program and to our school district are immeasurable, and his health will remain first and foremost in our minds.”

Dr. Barbara Qualls, EISD superintendent, added: “We are eternally grateful to Coach Harrell for the positive contributions he has made to our football program and to our school district over the past 16 years. He has established a legacy that has positively impacted so many of our students, and we are very pleased that he will remain a vital part of our Ennis ISD family.

“At an appropriate time in the near future, we will address future plans for the football program,” she said. “Today, we honor Coach Harrell for a job well done.”